San Román rules out running for Athletic presidency despite broad backing | OneFootball

Igor San Román, a former board member and once Jon Uriarte’s key lieutenant at Athletic, said in a social media statement that he will not stand in the upcoming presidential election despite significant support. The decision leaves Uriarte on course to be re-elected without a vote, as he already has the required endorsements, barring a late surprise.

San Román, previously head of communications and a pivotal figure in Uriarte’s comfortable 2022 win, had weighed an alternative bid in recent days after holding talks. His exit as a board member, officially for personal and professional reasons, had already signalled a split now confirmed by this move.

In recent weeks, expectations had grown around him stepping forward. He received backing from members, supporters and respected business figures prepared to help form a strong, professional board connected to the fanbase.

Family considerations weighed heavily, with his family paramount and the past four years already taking too much time.

He also outlined a model of Athletic in which the club belongs to its people and acts as a driver of the Basque Country, its language and culture, signalling deeper differences with Uriarte.

Even so, he left open the possibility of a future return and feels capable of leading the club.

Source: El Correo